Effective water and feed management are the cornerstones of a profitable and healthy beef cattle operation. When properly executed, these two elements work in tandem maximizing performance, reducing health issues and improving overall efficiency.

From lush spring growth to dormant winter range, the nutrient value of what a cow grazes can swing dramatically. Yet, the cow’s requirements don’t swing nearly as wildly. That mismatch is where performance is either captured … or lost.

Starting feedlot cattle correctly is one of the most important parts of the entire feeding program. A feedlot animal is being asked to make a major transition: from pasture, backgrounding or a previous management system into a high-energy, tightly managed environment where rapid weight gain is the goal.

Heat stress remains a costly, persistent challenge in U.S. beef production. Annual losses exceed $370 million annually, and the economic impact often begins before producers see obvious clinical signs. What feels like mild heat and humidity to humans may still impact cattle comfort and performance.

TMR audits started from a single question: Why did dairies that just bought a new mixer see a bump in milk production? Today, it is a fundamental tool that helps us use our equipment and data more effectively and better support our people and cows. Curiosity and a willingness to feed cows better will continue to influence what comes next.

Rib‑Arrow Dairy uses a fully connected system – vision monitoring, activity collars, cow‑locating tools and automated footbaths – to spot changes early and respond fast.

When a short, wet 2019 wheat harvest left dairies struggling with expensive and moldy straw, one farm decided there had to be a better way to feed dry cows than their Goldilocks diet. That challenge sparked an idea that would ultimately set the operation apart by separating corn silage into fodder and fines.

Cold weather is a critical time for proper care of both humans and animals. Severe winter weather is stressful and can occur suddenly. Make sure you’re prepared now to avoid extra stress in the moment.

Many feedbunk management factors should be regularly evaluated by farm managers and consultants. The goal is to provide adequate amounts of a uniform ration that all cows can access whenever they access the feedbunk.

For those of us born during the last millennium, we will remember how wonderful it was when the concept of total mixed ration (TMR) was introduced. Mixers with capabilities of taking all the ingredients and creating one feed. But we still must outsmart the bovine beast that looks for the goodies, and that means sorting.